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Fainting

(Syncope)

Definition

Fainting is a loss of consciousness that happens quickly and sometimes without warning. A fainting episode usually resolves within seconds to minutes. If fainting is caused by another condition, then the condition will need to be treated.

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the underlying condition that has caused fainting. This may include medications, lifestyle changes, or surgery.

Knowing the warning signs of fainting can help prevent injury. If warning signs are present, the person should be encouraged to sit or lie down right away.

Prevention

Decreasing the risk of fainting will depend on the cause. Some factors that may help include:

Rising slowly and carefully from lying down. Start by sitting up for a minute and then stand up.

Drinking plenty of fluids.

Discussing helpful dietary changes with your doctor. This may include eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.

Avoiding alcohol or other drugs.

There are certain physical movements that rapidly increase blood pressure and blood flow to the brain. These movements may prevent fainting after warning signs appear. Examples of physical movements may include:

Crossing your legs while tensing the muscles of legs, abdomen, and buttocks.

Forcefully squeezing a rubber ball or other object as hard as possible.

Gripping one hand with the other while tensing both arms and raising the elbows slightly.

RESOURCES

American Heart Association
http://www.heart.org

Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians
http://familydoctor.org

Fainting. American Academy of Family Physicians Family Doctor website. Available at:
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/fainting.html. Updated March 2014. Accessed January 8, 2015.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.